August 2026

feels like home HOME FEATURE WITH WAREHOUSE DESIGN

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

26 | HOME FEATURE Collierville homeowners turn to WareHouse Design to make the French Provincial their dream home.

44 | DESIGN Emily Chastain reimagined her client’s kitchen into the perfect combination of style and practicality.

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

AUGUST 2026 home & design 26 HOME FEATURE Feels Like Home

44 DESIGN

Creating Character

food & travel

52 TRAVEL Small Group Touring

64 IN THE KITCHEN Cheesy Tomato Pie

for you

40 WEDDING Mr. & Mrs. Marsico

68 HEALTHY YOU

Transformations and Meaning in Our Homes

74 ON A GOOD NOTE

Two Stores, One Mission: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis ReStore

in every issue

14 PUBLISHER'S NOTE

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73 SOURCES

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AUGUST 2026 • VOL. 25 NO. 5 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com

BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

HOW TO REACH US 7776 FARMINGTON BLVD, # 1321 GERMANTOWN TN 38183 | 901.684.4155 ATHOMEMMS.COM At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 7776 Farmington Blvd, # 1321 Germantown TN 38183.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 901.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com. Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South, 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South, 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183. or to tmonger@athomemms.com.

@athomemagazine

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As

sum m er begi ns i ts sl ow tra nsi ti on towa rd fa l l , August i nv i tes us to a pprec i ate the m oments that of ten pa ss too quickly.

I t ’s a sea son of gol den eveni ngs on the porc h, ba c k ya rd gatherings w ith fa mi l y a nd f ri ends, a nd m a k i ng the m ost of the l ong , warm days before the pa c e of a utum n returns.

At At Ho m e Mem p h i s & Mi d -So u th , we bel i eve ever y hom e tells a stor y. In thi s i ssue, we’re exc i ted to sha re a Col l i er v i l l e home that a co upl e ha d ha d thei r eyes on for qui te some ti m e. Now tra n sfo rmed to sui t thei r fa mi l y, i t i s the perfec t pl a c e to m a ke new m emo ries w ith thei r c hi l dren.

As you f l i p through these pa ges, I hope you’ l l f i nd i dea s that s pa rk your i m a gi nati on, i ntroduc e you to new l oca l favori tes, and e ncoura ge you to enj oy ever y corner of your home— i nsi de and o ut.

T ha nk you for m a k i ng At Ho m e Mem p h i s & Mi d -So u th pa rt o f yo ur ho me ea c h m onth. We a re gratef ul for our rea ders, our a dvertis ers a nd our communi ty, a nd we’re honored to conti nue sha ri ng the peopl e, pl a c es a nd proj ec ts that m a ke the Mi d-South shi ne.

Here’s to savori ng the f i na l days of summer a nd l ook i ng a head to a l l that the new sea son wi l l bri ng.

- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

F e e ls LIke Home

B Y T E R R I G L A Z E R | D E S I G N B Y W A R E H O U S E D E S I G N | P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y S T E FA N I E R A W L I N S O N P H O T O G R A P H Y August 2026 • athomemms.com | 27

H O M E F E AT U R E

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"He had been in love with this house for years,” says Christine Meisenheimer.

Her husband Hunter admits how much he’d wanted to live in the Collierville home ever since he saw it and looked at its online listing. “I just loved the yard and the pond and all the home's potential.”

The couple had known for a while that they’d eventually move to accommodate the needs of their growing family, but Christine was still reluctant when the time came to look for a new place. Until she saw this one. “I walked in and I was like, ‘Okay, Hunter, you were right.’”

It’s no wonder she changed her mind. Set back from the road on a multi-acre lot, the white brick French Provincial is not only beautiful on the outside, it features a light-filled interior with a casually traditional style, plenty of room, and was in mint condition. Not to mention the exterior features that originally drew Hunter’s attention. The idyllic setting belies the fact that the home is located on a thoroughfare in the Memphis suburb. Just outside the back door, an inviting covered patio leads to a pool, then past a grove of trees to a pond; a tranquil scene worthy of a painting.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

Both

the Meisenheimers were sold: the family, including two school-age children, moved in early last year.

The team from WareHouse Design came on board right away to help the couple transform their new house into their dream home. Luckily, that transformation didn’t have to involve major renovation. “The house was in great shape,” says Hunter. “The previous owners had taken great care of it.”

The decision to bring in WareHouse Design owner Lauren Ware and lead designer Jessica Risinger was a comfortable one; Ware had helped with a couple of projects in their former home. The couple had a clear vision of the direction they wanted to go designwise; they just needed professionals to guide them on how to get there. “I knew what I wanted. There were just too many choices, and it overwhelmed me,” says Christine.

One of the features the new owners wanted most to play up was the home’s abundance of natural light. To that end, Risinger placed in the entry a pair of gracefully arched mirrors that flank the double front doors. Their reflections not only multiply the light, they also offer additional angles of the view that extends from the foyer all the way through the house to the scenic backyard.

The entry opens to the dining room, where Risinger skillfully updated an architectural feature and lighting, then helped the Meisenheimers blend their existing furniture with new acquisitions. With pink tile and a white surround, the original fireplace looked dated. New marble and dark wood project a more timely style, as does a chandelier with metallic leaves that echo the home’s natural setting. The designer added wallpaper to provide a bit of texture and color; its soft blue tone is one of the couple’s favorites and reappears throughout their home’s design.

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A

cheerful sunroom serves as Hunter’s home office. Although not a fan of its cobalt blue tile floor when he first saw it in online photos, he has since embraced the vibrant feature, thanks to Risinger’s design expertise. She explains, “We found this rug locally, at Heavenly Oriental Rugs, and it fit well with their style. It just made sense, pulling out that little bit of blue. It covers enough, but also leaves enough edge exposed to appreciate the floor, too.”

The heart of this home is the family room that stretches across the back. Its expansive size and the fact that the space is punctuated in its center by doors leading to the patio created a conundrum for the couple as to furniture layout. The owners knew they wanted to change its dark “hunting lodge” feel, as Christine describes, but weren’t sure how to best set up the rectangular structure. Risinger solved the dilemma by creating dual seating areas, each with a distinct purpose, but sharing a design aesthetic.

To the right is a zone that defines the concept of a family room. A massive sectional sofa sourced from Wilson’s Furniture provides more than enough space for the whole Meisenheimer clan to watch TV together. It’s upholstered in a soft blue fabric that’s as rugged as it is beautiful—kid- and dog-friendly. That’s a big plus according to Kevin and Maisie, the home’s resident Bernese Mountain Dog and Golden Retriever. Risinger set out to make the spot truly personal, filling the built-in bookshelves with sentimental pieces and embellishing the back wall with a dozen family photos matted in simple white and framed in black. “Having a little bit of structure happening amongst all the other things with softer edges created a nice contrasting element,” says the designer.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

The

other half of the room has a bit more elegant feel thanks to a sophisticated tuxedo sofa from Millennium Home Furnishings.

Covered in pretty light blue velvet, its exposed turned legs with casters and graceful curved arms add interest. A cozy chaise lounge nestled in a corner in front of two walls of windows fulfills Christine’s request for a comfortable reading spot.

As in the rest of the home, the decor is a mix of mostly new with a few special pieces, like a chest of drawers that was a wedding gift from Hunter’s grandparents. The heirloom looks as thought it was made to be placed in its current location, a niche in the family room. Above it, a series of water-focused landscapes reprises the coastal feel and colors to which the homeowners are partial.

The two sections of the room seem a bit like fraternal twins—different, yet the same. Risinger saw to that by formulating a consistent color palette. Accent pillows are interchangeable, working nicely in either space. Full-length neutral draperies mounted on lucite rods with gold hardware flank the room’s window walls, softening the atmosphere and uniting the halves into a cohesive unit.

The decision to let ocean-inspired blues and greens give way to more saturated earth tones in the primary bedroom involved careful consideration. Hunter remembers, “That was the last room we did, and it was in the fall. I didn’t want [to go with darker colors] just because of the season, so I was kind of skeptical. But I really like the way the paint turned out.”

A new warm wood bed, nightstands and dresser accentuate the room’s handsome vibe, while a pair of wide armchairs define a separate space in the large bedroom. Perhaps the most remarkable feature, however, is one that’s not readily noticeable. Motorized, remote-controlled blackout shades on the windows ensure that not a smidge of light comes through when it’s time for sleep, a requirement that was important to Christine.

The Meisenheimers are thrilled with the setup created by Budget Blinds.

“The view from this room is amazing, looking out to the pool and pond.

We didn’t want to have a bedroom where we never opened the windows, so these automated shades are great,” Hunter says.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

Risinger freshened up the adjoining bathroom without having to start

from scratch. New, lighter stone countertops brighten the room, as do large mirrors with a geometric detail. Those changes mark the completion of what the couple refers to as “Phase One” of the renovation of their new place. Redoing the upstairs is in their future plans.

The designer credits the project’s success to the fact that Hunter, and eventually Christine, had fallen in love with this gem of a home. “I feel like the key was using the great base that they’ve loved for so long and bringing it back to life in their style. No super big renovation happened; we just used what was here to fit their family’s needs now,” she says. “The downstairs feels complete.”

Hunter agrees, “Christine and I have both said this feels more like a home than our old house did after 12 years."

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DESIGN

CREATING CHARACTER

BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY EMILY CHASTAIN INTERIOR DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH VOIGT PHOTOGRAPHY

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BEYOND merely updating colors and finishes, this kitchen renovation involved creating character. Says designer Emily Chastain, “My top priority for this project was to create architecture where there wasn’t any.” Keeping in mind her client’s love for French style and New Orleans, Chastain reimagined the space into the perfect combination of beauty and practicality.

Tiffany Turner built the Hernando, Mississippi, home in the early 2000s and now shares it with her husband Matt and their two-year-old son. When she decided it was time to change the kitchen from its original form, she reached out to Chastain, whom she’d followed on social media for some time.

Chastain based her concept on a series of observations she made when she visited the Turners at home early in the process. The designer set out to learn exactly how her clients used their kitchen, even watching Matt, the family cook, prepare a meal.

One of the first things she realized was that the existing island wasn’t functional and needed to be reworked. Drawing inspiration from a photo Tiffany found on Pinterest, Chastain conceived a new version that features graceful curves and reeded wood detail. Constructed of walnut by Old City Millwork in Memphis, it holds a large apron-front sink, dishwasher and a clever indentation with room for a trio of barstools.

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DESIGN

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Across the way, a custom curved arch finished in Roman clay instantly gave the room character

and a focal point. It also conceals the vent hood above the new commercial-style range from Cafe Appliances. Thoughtful details like the slab quartzite backsplash, gold knobs and handles on the range, and twin alabaster sconces further elevate the elegant look. A pot-filler faucet and an alcove to keep spices handy are examples of more practical details Chastain included.

The awkward flow of the kitchen’s overall layout presented the designer a challenge. Just inside the space from the hall, a built-in desk looked dated and went largely unused. By removing the desk and building out the cased opening between the kitchen and living area a few inches, she created the perfect place for a Cafe refrigerator/freezer, resulting in a more efficient work triangle.

During her initial visit, Chastain also noticed Tiffany’s wine collection, acquired during vacations over the years. “ The wine was displayed throughout the house, but there wasn’t a dedicated place to showcase something that clearly meant so much to her,” Chastain recalls. “I wanted to create a feature that was both beautiful and functional—a custom wine bar that celebrated those memories while giving her collection a permanent home.”

The result is show-stopping, built in against a wall in the casual dining area. The arch motif Chastain created above the range continues here with a sweeping curve that holds a pair of purpose-built, glass-front cabinets precisely the right depth to house wine bottles. Backed in antiqued mirrored glass imported from Italy, the space between them features brass-and-glass shelves. Below, deep drawers and a pair of cabinets provide a wealth of storage space.

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DESIGN

A stunning new chandelier over the dining

table punctuates the vignette. “Lighting can make or break a space,” Chastain says. “I love using lighting as art, so I’m always searching for something unique.” She found a gem in a glass bubble-style fixture with a bit of funky style.

The family seldom enters their home from the front door; they usually come in from the garage entry that opens into a hallway adjacent to the kitchen. “ The entryway is a handshake to the home,” Chastain says, noting the importance of including the rear entrance in the overall design plan.

It was an ideal spot to introduce pattern and color that she would repeat throughout the spaces. Chastain paired a botanical wallpaper with soft green trim in the entry area, then pulled from its deep blue background to bring drama to the kitchen and bar cabinetry. Sherwin Williams Moscow Midnight is saturated, yet bright enough to not feel heavy. Color and interest also come from the oversized checkerboard tile floor, as well as deep red accents in new textiles and rugs.

Chastain couldn’t be more pleased with the project’s end result. “ This kitchen feels collected rather than sterile. We created beautiful character by balancing rich walnut with jewel-toned cabinetry, warm unlacquered brass, creamy plaster walls, marble and antiqueinspired lighting. Every finish adds warmth instead of competing for attention.”

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Emily Chastain is the founder and principal designer of Emily Chastain Interior Design, a full-service firm based in North Mississippi.

She comes by her talent genetically. “My dad was a decorator when I was growing up, and he owned a painting business. I get my talent for color from him. My grandfather was an architect, and my uncle was a cartoonist, so art and design run in my family; we all have a knack for it,” she explains. After honing her skills working in property management, project management, and design for multifamily and short-term rental spaces, she opened her studio in 2023. Chastain points out that her multi-faceted background equipped her with the skills to successfully guide projects from first concept to final installation.

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T R AV E L

INTIMATE, IMMERSIVE AND EFFORTLESS: WHY SMALL GROUP TOURING IS CHANGING TRAVEL

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T R AV E L

STORY AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS August 2026 • athomemms.com | 53

T R AV E L

T R AV E L H A S E V O LV E D. Today ’s

travelers are looking to do more than simply check destinations off a bucket list. They want meaningful experiences, authentic connections and the freedom to enjoy a destination without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

That shift in priorities is one reason small group touring has become one of the fastest-growing trends in travel. Offering a balance between independent exploration and expertly guided excursions, small group journeys provide an experience that feels both personal and effortless.

Among the companies leading this movement is Globus, whose Small Group Discoveries collection has reimagined what escorted touring can be. With intentionally limited group sizes, these journeys create opportunities for deeper cultural immersion, more personalized service and a pace that allows travelers to truly experience the places they visit.

For those seeking richer experiences without sacrificing convenience, small group touring may be the perfect way to see the world.

THE RISE OF MORE MEANINGFUL T R AV E L In an era when travelers have endless options at their fingertips, many are discovering that more choices do not always create a better vacation. Planning a multi-country itinerary can quickly become overwhelming , considering details from transportation and accommodations to navigating language barriers and local customs.

Vacationers are becoming more intentional about how they spend their time away.

Rather than rushing from one landmark to another, they want opportunities to connect with local culture, savor regional cuisine and appreciate the smaller moments that often become the most memorable.

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Small group touring addresses both needs.

Travelers experience the confidence of knowing they have an expertly planned itinerary. They can explore destinations in a way that feels authentic and unhurried.

With the logistics handled by professionals, guests are free to focus on discovery rather than details.

This balance between convenience and immersion has become increasingly appealing to couples, solo travelers, retirees and multi-generational family groups seeking a more rewarding way to travel.

W H AT M A K E S S M A L L G R O U P T R AV E L D I F F E R E N T ?

The most obvious distinction is size.

While traditional escorted tours can include dozens of participants, Globus Small Group Discoveries are intentionally limited, creating a more intimate experience. Fewer travelers mean less time waiting , smoother transitions between destinations and more opportunities for meaningful interaction with guides and fellow guests.

The advantages become apparent almost immediately.

Boarding transportation takes less time.

Hotel check-ins move more efficiently.

Attractions can often be explored with greater ease. Those small time savings accumulate throughout the journey, creating opportunities to enjoy what guests came to see in the first place.

The smaller format also allows tour directors to provide more personalized attention. It becomes easier to ask questions, engage in conversations and gain deeper insight into the history, culture and traditions of destinations.

Instead of feeling like one face in a crowd, travelers become active participants in the experience.

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T R AV E L

JERONIMOS MONASTERY IN LISBON, PORTUGAL

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T R AV E L

THE GLOBUS DIFFERENCE Globus has built a reputation for expertly crafted escorted vacations spanning destinations around the world. The Small Group Discoveries collection takes that expertise and enhances it through an intimate approach.

Rather than simply reducing the number of travelers, Globus designs these itineraries specifically for smaller groups. This opens doors to experiences that may not be practical for larger tours. Boutique hotels, family-owned wineries, local workshops, hidden restaurants and unique cultural encounters become accessible in ways they wouldn’t be with a larger number. Travelers enjoy many of the same iconic landmarks while also discovering places and experiences that feel less commercial and more personal.

The result is a trip that feels immersive without being complicated and structured without feeling rigid. For many travelers, it represents the best of both worlds.

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WHO BENEFITS MOST FROM SMALL GROUP TOURING? One of the greatest strengths of small group travel is its broad appeal.

Couples appreciate the balance between shared experiences and personal time. They can enjoy romantic moments together while also benefiting from the social atmosphere that naturally develops within a smaller group.

For solo travelers, small group tours offer an ideal combination of independence and companionship. Traveling alone can be incredibly rewarding , but it can also feel intimidating in unfamiliar destinations. Small group journeys provide built-in camaraderie, security and support while still allowing personal freedom.

Multi-generational families are increasingly discovering the advantages of guided travel.

With transportation, accommodations and sightseeing arranged in advance, family members can spend less time managing logistics and more time enjoying one another ’s company.

Even seasoned travelers who typically prefer independent vacations often find value in small group touring. The opportunity to access local experts, unique experiences and carefully curated itineraries allows them to see familiar destinations from a fresh perspective.

WHY THE EXPERIENCE FEELS MORE PERSONAL The difference between traditional touring and small group travel is often less about the destination and more about the experience.

On larger tours, efficiency naturally becomes a priority; the destination itself takes center stage when the group number is limited.

Travelers have more opportunities to engage with local culture, ask questions, linger over memorable meals and absorb the atmosphere around them. Conversations with guides become more meaningful. Interactions with local residents feel less rushed. Even transportation can feel more relaxed and comfortable.

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Rather than moving through destinations as spectators, guests become immersed participants in the story of a place. That subtle difference can create the most lasting memories.

F I V E S M A L L G R O U P J O U R N E Y S T H AT SHOWCASE THE POSSIBILITIES One of the most impressive aspects of Globus Small Group Discoveries is the diversity of experiences available. The collection spans multiple continents and travel styles, proving that intimate travel can be enjoyed almost anywhere in the world.

Italian Mosaic Italy has long been one of the world’s most beloved destinations. Experiencing it as part of a smaller group allows travelers to appreciate its charm on a deeper level. Guests can wander through Rome’s historic neighborhoods, enjoy Tuscan wine country and navigate Venice’s winding canals without feeling rushed. Smaller groups can take advantage of more authentic local interactions and a greater opportunity to embrace the Italian lifestyle known as La Dolce Vita.

Enchanting Portugal Portugal’s appeal lies in its rich history, vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere.

This itinerary takes travelers from Lisbon’s colorful streets to the scenic vineyards of the Douro Valley. Small group travel allows access to family-owned wineries, boutique accommodations and local experiences that provide a clearer glimpse into Portuguese life.

Kenya: A Classic Safari Africa offers some of the most unforgettable travel experiences on earth, and a small group safari enhances every moment.

Exploring Kenya’s legendary wildlife reserves with fewer travelers creates exceptional opportunities for animal viewing and fosters a greater sense of connection to both the landscape and local communities. Whether witnessing the Great Migration or spotting the

T R AV E L

SPANISH STEPS IN ROME

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T R AV E L

Big Five, the experience feels more intimate and immersive.

Spirit of the Rockies Closer to home, the Canadian Rocky Mountains deliver spectacular scenery and outdoor adventure.

Travelers journey through iconic destinations such as Banff and Jasper National Parks, where turquoise lakes, soaring peaks and abundant wildlife create postcard-worthy views at every turn. A smaller group allows for greater flexibility and more opportunities to appreciate the breathtaking landscape.

Tropical Costa Rica Costa Rica’s famous "Pura Vida" lifestyle is perfectly suited for small group exploration. From cloud forests and volcanoes to rainforests teeming with wildlife, travelers enjoy a deeper connection to nature. Smaller groups can move more quietly through natural environments, increasing opportunities to spot sloths, toucans, monkeys and other remarkable creatures.

A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES Beyond these examples, Globus Small Group Discoveries extend across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America and Latin America. Travelers can explore the villages of Provence, experience cultural traditions in Japan, discover the natural wonders of Yellowstone or enjoy immersive culinary experiences throughout the American Southwest. Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed to combine iconic attractions with meaningful local encounters. The emphasis is not simply on seeing a destination but on experiencing it in a way that feels genuine and memorable.

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MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK

T R AV E L

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T H E F U T U R E O F T R AV E L M AY B E S M A L L E R As travel continues to evolve, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: guests are prioritizing quality over quantity. They want experiences that feel personal rather than crowded, authentic connections rather than rushed sightseeing , the confidence of expert planning without sacrificing discovery.

Small group touring answers those desires beautifully.

By combining the convenience of escorted travel with the intimacy of a more personalized experience, Globus Small Group Discoveries offer a compelling way to explore the world. Participants enjoy the comfort of knowing every detail has been thoughtfully arranged and feel connected to the places they visit.

In a world where trips are often measured by how much we can see, small group touring reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful journeys come from slowing down, looking closer and experiencing a destination one unforgettable moment at a time.

While small group touring offers an effortless way to explore the world, choosing the right travel advisor can make the experience even more rewarding. As a preferred Globus partner, Travel Leaders Collierville brings decades of travel expertise, personalized service and firsthand destination knowledge to every vacation.

Experienced travel advisors take the time to understand each group’s interests, travel style and goals, helping them select the Globus Small Group Discovery that best matches their vision. From answering questions before departure to assisting with flights, travel protection, pre- and post-tour arrangements and special requests, Travel Leaders pros serve as guests’ advocates every step of the way.

In today ’s world of online booking engines and endless travel information, working with a trusted professional can save valuable time, reduce stress and provide peace of mind before, during and after a journey.

For more information on a Globus Small Group Discovery, contact Travel Leaders Collierville at 901.853.6200 to schedule an appointment. Located at 1125 Poplar View Lane South, Suite 3, Collierville, TN 38017, the team helps turn travel dreams into unforgettable memories.

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IN THE KITCHEN

Cheesy Tomato Pie

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IN THE KITCHEN

C H E E S Y T O M AT O P I E S e r v e d on B ord a l l o P i n h e i ro C a b b a g e w a re , c ou r t e s y of S out h e r n Av e nu e C omp a ny

As s u m m e r c om e s t o a c l o s e , t h e re’s n o b e tt e r w ay t o s av or t h e s e a s on t h a n w it h a S out h e r n c l a s s i c . Ma d e w it h f re s h s u m m e r t om at o e s , c re a my c h e e s e s , c r i s py b a c on a n d a butt e r y c h e c k e r b o a rd c r u s t , t h i s c h e e s y t om at o pi e i s t h e p e r f e c t w ay t o c e l e br at e t h e f l av or s of s u m m e r.

INGREDIENTS 2 re f r i g e r at e d pi e c r u s t s 4 – 5 f re s h t om at o e s , s l i c e d 1 c up f re s h s pi n a c h , c h opp e d ½ c up m ay on n a i s e 1 c up f re s h l y s h re d d e d c h e d d a r c h e e s e ½ c up f re s h l y s h re d d e d w h it e c h e d d a r c h e e s e 1 0 s t r ip s b a c on , c o o k e d a n d c r u mb l e d 1 e g g , b e at e n w it h 1 t a b l e s p o on w at e r ( f or e g g w a s h ) 2 g re e n on i on s , c h opp e d S a lt a n d f re s h l y c r a c k e d b l a c k p e pp e r, t o t a s t e

I N S T RU C T I O N S P re h e at t h e ov e n t o 3 7 5 ° F. A r r a n g e s l i c e d t om at o e s on p ap e r t ow e l s or a c o o l i n g r a c k , s pr i n k l e l i g ht l y w it h s a lt , a n d a l l ow t o s it f or 2 0 - 3 0 m i nut e s t o re m ov e e x c e s s m oi s t u re .

Pat d r y b e f ore a s s e mb l i n g . C ombi n e m ay on n a i s e , c h e d d a r c h e e s e , w h it e c h e d d a r c h e e s e , s pi n a c h , s a lt a n d p e pp e r i n a b ow l .

P l a c e on e pi e c r u s t i nt o a 9 - i n c h pi e d i s h , pr i c k t h e b ott om w it h a f or k , a n d p a r b a k e f or 1 0 - 1 2 m i nut e s . L ay e r h a l f of t h e c h e e s e m i x tu re , b a c on a n d t om at o e s i nt o t h e c r u s t .

R e p e at l ay e r s , f i n i s h i n g w it h a l i g ht s pr i n k l e of c h e e s e . Cut t h e re m a i n i n g pi e c r u s t i nt o s t r ip s a n d w e av e i nt o a c h e c k e r b o a rd l att i c e . B r u s h w it h e g g w a s h a n d b a k e f or 3 5 - 4 0 m i nut e s , or u nt i l t h e c r u s t i s g o l d e n a n d t h e f i l l i n g i s bu b b l i n g . A l l ow t o c o o l s l i g ht l y b e f ore s l i c i n g . G a r n i s h w it h g re e n on i on s a n d f re s h l y c r a c k e d p e pp e r.

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H E A LT H Y Y O U

Transformations and Meaning in Our Homes STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS

MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT

What com e s to m i nd w hen

yo u t hi nk of hom e ? For m e , home e mbo di es thre e i nte gra l pa r ts, t he physi ca l spa c e of hom e that i s t he bu i l di ng , the physi ca l hom e that is my bo dy, a nd the hom e that is my spi r i t. Ea c h i s a uni que spa c e of sa c re d va l ue unto i tsel f a nd a ll are pa r ts of one a nothe r.

I n e a c h hom e resi de pi e c es of the fa m i l y f rom whi c h I ca me a nd pi ec es of the fa m i l y that i nc l ud e s my husba nd a nd c hi l dren: ph o to g ra phs, f urni ture a nd ot her me mora bi l i a . M y body ca r ries DNA a nd ge ne s f rom ge ne rat ions befo re m e, a nd my spi r i t ho lds tho ug ht s a nd patte r ns pa ssed dow n o r l e a rned f rom navi gati ng the exp e r i e nc e s of those who he lped sha p e my ea rl y deve l opm ent .

Ea c h ho m e houses my sa c re d life exp e r i e nc e s, gi ve n, deve l ope d and tra nsform ed.

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I have lived in my current home for over 24 years and w hile it is not t he first home I have lived in, it is t he home I have lived in t he longest . I have remodeled it t w ice, and w it h each t ransformat ion I have discarded some items, reorganized exist ing t hings different ly, and incorporated new pieces. Fox hunt t rophies from my husband’s great grandfat her have a place in our den alongside our modernday sofas, a marble top table from my great grandparent s’ house, and a reupholstered stool from my husband’s mot her. Our home, as a personal museum of our lived experiences, cont inues to t ransform in a sacred and honoring way.

I have lived in my body for just over 55 years. My rest ing facial expression is a replica of my mot her ’s and yet I have my ow n unique look and st y le. Through t he decades my body has experienced t ransformat ional changes. My

H E A LT H Y Y O U

to nsi l s were re m oved whe n I was t hre e ye ars ol d, however, I do not m a ke a pra c ti c e of di sca rdi ng body pa r t s. I a c knowl e dge that som et imes o ur he a l th depe nds on rem ov ing pa r ts to hel p the body f unc tion bette r. My body ha s ex per i enced sho r t- te r m i nj ur i es a nd i l l ne sses.

Ea c h ti m e i t ha s fa c ed re pa i r and re sto rati on, som eti m es i n ways t hat ma ke i t stronger a nd m o re re si l i e nt a ga i nst f uture i l l ne sses a nd so meti m es i n ways that make i t mo re f ra gi l e a nd re qui re a l ongte r m l i fe styl e c ha nge . H avi ng had Ro c k y M o unta i n Spotte d Fever once, I ’m n ow i m m une to f uture i nfe ct ion; my bo dy grew stronge r through t hat i l l ne ss. The her ni ate d di sc i n my neck re qu i re s p hysi ca l the ra py to m anage f l a re - ups, a per m a ne nt a dj ustment rat he r tha n a re sol ve d one. My family hi sto r y i ncl ude s di a betes a nd cancer, m a k i ng m e predi sposed to these di se a se s . Ac cordi ng to re sea rch, I ca n t ra nsfor m the ex pressi on of ge n eti c disposi ti ons through healt hy c ho i c e s. My body ca r ri e s m e through l i fe expe r i enc e s uni que to m e and t ra nsfo r ms through e a c h one , f i nding re st a nd sol a c e i n the hom e that I have c urate d a s a sa c re d dwelling pl a c e.

The sp iri t house d i n my physical bo dy i s a n ex pressi on of be l i efs, exp e r i e nc e s a nd va l ue s that I have i nhe r i te d f rom my fa m i l y of origin, my c u l t ure , a nd pe rc e pti ons I have deve l o p e d f rom l i fe ex pe r i enc es. My be l i ef i n G o d a s a Prote sta nt C hrist ian

was passed on to me from my fami ly of origin. The work I do as a mental healt h t herapist is driven by my childhood belief t hat if my family had greater understanding , listened mo re , or asked more quest ions, t hings could have been much better in our hom e .

The belief t hat God is omnipresent passed on to me by my grandparent s helps me nav igate life w it h personal accountabilit y to t reat ot hers fairly and hold myself to a standard of “walk ing my talk .” Throughout my adult life I have spent years examining t he beliefs and values passed dow n to me and developed on my ow n. It has been helpful to reflect on my lived experiences to see how t hey influence w ho I am today, w hat I should abandon, w hat I can t ransform, and w hat needs to be restored to help me reach my goals for fait h, family, and life. M y spirit is God-breat hed and given; it is a private sacred sanct um house d in my physical body. It is conveyed t hrough t he decor t hat makes t he home in w hich I dwell a personal museum of my ancestors and my live d experiences. Our homes are w hat we make t hem physically and spirit ual ly.

We are constant ly changing , and as we evolve, we should take invento r y of w hat we have, how we got w here we are, and w hat needs to be t ransformed to live t he life we desi re .

Michelle R. Johns, Owner MA, LPC-MHSP, NCC, 500 CYT Transforming Wellness, LLC Germantown, TN & Oxford, MS www.transforming-wellness.com 901.258.3619 August 2026 • athomemms.com | 69

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AU G U S T 2026 SOURCES HO M E F E AT U R E Special Thanks WareHouse Design warehousedesigntn.com Stefanie Rawlinson Photography Stefanierawlinson.com

DESIGN Special Thanks Emily Chastain Interior Design Emilychastaininteriordesign.com Sarah Voigt Photography sarahvoigt.com

TRAVEL Special Thanks Travel Leaders 901.853.6200

HEALTHY YOU Special Thanks Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com Club Pilates Lp.clubpilates.com

IN THE KITCHEN Special Thanks Made by Molly @__madebymolly

ON A GOOD NOTE Special Thanks Habitat for Humanity habitat.org

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ON A GOOD NOTE

Two Stores, One Mission: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis ReStore STORY BY JESSICA HORD | PHOTOS COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY The name Habitat for Humanity likely brings to mind a picture of a construction site filled with volunteers and the sound of hammers. Here in the Memphis area, that picture should also include the ReStore.

Owned and operated by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis, the Memphis ReStore is a nonprofit home improvement store open to the public, selling new and gently used furniture, cabinets, appliances, home goods and building supplies at affordable prices. The Memphis ReStore exists to serve as a daily fundraiser for Memphis Habitat.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis was founded in 1983 and serves the community through two programs – a homebuying program that helps aspiring homebuyers build and buy homes with affordable mortgages, and an Aging In Place program that provides free repairs and modifications for senior homeowners. Since its founding, Memphis Habitat has served over 640 homebuyer families and more than 1,800 seniors.

The organization’s work is ongoing, and the Memphis ReStore plays an important role in daily operations. Every purchase, every donation and every hour volunteered helps Memphis Habitat serve more families.

“We’re always looking for ways to help more people discover the Memphis ReStore because it’s one of the easiest ways to support Memphis Habitat,” says Dwayne Spencer, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis. “Whether you shop, donate or volunteer, you’re helping create more affordable homeownership opportunities for local families and providing more repairs for seniors. That’s a win for our customers and our community.”

Spencer emphasizes the three ways local residents can support Habitat Memphis through the ReStore. “Just remember: Shop.

Donate. Volunteer.,” he says.

SHOP The Memphis ReStore offers a constantly changing selection of new and gently used furniture, appliances, decor and building supplies, as well as new butcher block countertops and custom cabinets. A small selection of items is also available online.

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to the ReStore. Whether you are remodeling, redecorating or decluttering, the ReStore makes it easy. The organization even works with companies that want to donate excess inventory in order to clear warehouse space! There are three ways to donate: Drop Off - Both Memphis-area ReStore locations have donation centers where you can drop off donations during business hours.

Pick Up - The Memphis ReStore offers a pickup service for large residential or corporate donations. Free and paid priority pickup options are available.

Deconstruction - The Memphis ReStore’s skilled deconstruction team can uninstall and remove cabinets, fixtures and more for homeowners, contractors and builders. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your renovation budget.

VOLUNTEER If you love design and decor, the ReStore offers the perfect volunteer opportunity for you or your group. Volunteer groups help ReStore staff prepare the store for shoppers by opening, assembling, organizing and arranging merchandise. Currently, the Memphis ReStore is also seeking volunteer leaders, affectionately known as “Blue Hats,” who can contribute time on a regular basis and assist staff in leading groups.

The Memphis ReStore’s flagship location at 7130 Winchester Road opened in 2011. Habitat expanded in 2024 with a second ReStore location at 920 W. Poplar Ave. in Collierville. Both local ReStore locations include the donation centers and are open Tue.-Sat. from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

To learn more or schedule a pickup, call 901.737.8673, visit www.memphisrestore.com, or scan the QR code below. For sneak peeks at Memphis ReStore inventory and sales, follow the Memphis ReStore on Facebook and Instagram.

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